Putin states that ensuring defense capabilities is Russia's top priority.
"Our country is always open to direct and honest dialogue, to seek diplomatic solutions to the most complicated issues," said the Russian president.
MOSCOW, February 23, TASS - Russia is ready to maintain a direct and honest dialogue on international affairs, which it does by safeguarding its defense capabilities as a crucial task for the state, President Vladimir Putin said in a speech on the occasion of Defender of the Fatherland Day.
"Today, ensuring our country's defense capabilities remains a priority task for the State, as the armed forces serve as a guarantee of national security, the peaceful lives of our citizens, and the stable and gradual development of Russia," he noted.
"We see how challenging the international situation is, what risks the existing challenges pose, such as the destabilization of the arms control system or NATO's military activity," Putin said. Meanwhile, "Russia's call to create an equal and indivisible security system that protects all countries remains unanswered," the president added.
"Our country is always open to direct and honest dialogue, to seeking diplomatic solutions to the most complicated issues, but I must reiterate that Russia's interests and the security of its citizens are unconditional," the Russian leader emphasized. "That is why we will continue developing and upgrading the army and fleet, increasing their efficiency," he noted.
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